The hoa rules are in place to keep the place from running down due to neglect or all around shit bag, ghetto attitudes. It actually helps the property hold value especially if you plan on renting it out. Hoa takes care of common ground landscaping, trash and snow removal and maintenance of the pool. Also prevents retard from painting their house pink or some other shit color that will be an eyesore. They also are the parking police when some random tries to park in your reserved spot.